I’ll keep this article as short and precise as possible while delivering the key message: whenever the question “Who is the best right-back in the Premier League?” comes up, the answer should be fired right back without hesitation – Reece James isn’t just the best right-back in the Premier League; he’s the best right-back in the world.
The Cobham Academy graduate has grown into one of the many top-tier talents the academy has consistently produced.
In the Chelsea vs Arsenal game on Sunday, November 30, after delivering a performance that earned him the Man of the Match award, there was a brief moment of regret – a reminder not only of what he might have achieved had injuries not halted his momentum, and how sorely the club missed him during those long months on the sidelines, but also of how clearly he still stands head and shoulders above many of the Premier League’s best defenders.
The UEFA Super Cup, Champions League, FIFA Intercontinental Cup, Conference League and Club World Cup winner reminded the world just how good he is and why he is the captain of Chelsea at the age of 25.
2019 Transfer Ban: A Blessing in Disguise
At a time when the Blues were often criticised for failing to produce academy graduates capable of starting in the Premier League, the Chelsea 2019 transfer ban came at a rather opportune moment.
Reece James, first brought into the squad under Maurizio Sarri during the 2018/19 season, was sent on loan to Wigan to gain valuable Championship experience – an experience that has been crucial to his development.
By the time Chelsea’s all-time goalscorer Frank Lampard took charge in 2019, James had returned from loan and quickly established himself as a first-team regular, stepping up in a period when the club had limited options in defence.
And even after Lampard had left, he continued to be an ever-present in the squad. His most productive spell at the club was in the 2021/22 Champions League-winning team under Thomas Tuchel, where James from defence produced six goals and 10 assists in 39 games.
After the departure of long-standing skipper Cesar Azpilicueta in 2023, Reece James was appointed captain and has since led the team with authority. Seen as a quiet leader, he has combined his defensive solidity with experience on and off the pitch, while guiding a younger squad through the challenges of the Premier League and European competitions.
James wasn’t the only Cobham Academy graduate to benefit from the 2019 transfer ban; several other players from that period also went on to make a name for themselves. But he and Trevoh Chalobah – who only made his breakthrough under Thomas Tuchel two years later – remain the last true beneficiaries of that 2019 transfer-ban era still at the club.
Best Right-Back in the Premier League
Reece James Evolution Under Enzo Maresca
After Enzo Maresca’s appointment in 2024, the Italian, in an interview, revealed how he shared a message and video with James, outlining his vision of him as a midfielder. Since then, James has been utilised by Maresca both as a right-back and in midfield. He said:
“So, you can ask Reece; when I signed with Chelsea, probably the day after, i sent him a video about seeing him as a midfielder. I see Reece as a midfielder, not now – since day one, before I met him for the first time, he was on holiday. I sent him a clip of him playing as a midfielder.
“I mentioned Reece playing as a midfielder a long time ago. He is playing there, now but the good thing is he played this year already as a full-back, as a centre-back and as a central midfielder. The main target for us is to help him be fit all season.”
This just shows how versatile Reece James has grown to be, valued both at the club and national level. He is no longer just the best right-back in the Premier League, he is now in the discussion for one of the Premier League’s best defenders.
His ability to slot into midfield and provide cover for the centre-backs demonstrates his tactical intelligence and adaptability. Coaches trust him to perform wherever the team needs him, and his consistency on the pitch reflects that trust.
His evolution is a testament to his work ethic and footballing intelligence, making him one of the most complete English defenders of his generation. The 25-year-old can do all things. Whether it’s breaking up attacks, pushing forward with the ball, spraying defence-splitting passes or orchestrating play from deeper positions, James is HIM.
Why Reece James Tops Every Comparisons
Since his breakout season, he has been compared to numerous top right-backs – from Trent Alexander-Arnold to Kyle Walker, Diogo Dalot, and, more recently, Jurrien Timber, who also featured in the Chelsea vs Arsenal game. And yet, he has consistently emerged on top, carving out his own identity on the pitch.
Known for his blend of defensive solidity, precise passing, and attacking instincts, he has not only matched the standards set by his peers but, in many ways, redefined what it means to excel in his position.
In the recent match against Arsenal, Reece James, paired with Moises Caicedo – who was unfortunately sent off following a challenge on Mikel Merino – dominated the midfield, outshining players like Declan Rice and Zubimendi.
His rise is a testament to talent meeting dedication, and he continues to set the benchmark for the next generation of full-backs, particularly those emerging from the Cobham Academy.
“The Hardest I’ve Ever Played Against”: Opponents on Reece James
Rafael Leao:
“James is a good player, he was all over me and everywhere at the same time, he timed his runs very fine. I hardly talk about opposing players but this guy is actually the toughest I have faced I think.”
Omar Marmoush:
“Until now, it was Reece James.
“It was my first Premier League game. He’s fast, strong and has quality on the ball. He gave me a tough time.
“I haven’t played much in the Premier League yet, but I’ll say James for now.”
Jeremie Doku:
“I would say Reece James. I think he is a very strong and good defender, and one of the hardest I’ve ever played against.”
Vinicius Junior:
“I’ve played against a lot of them and the most difficult opponents were Chelsea’s [Reece] James and [Kyle] Walker, of Manchester City.”
When some of the world’s best wingers say the same thing about you, it shows that you are one of the Premier League’s best defenders. These are just a few of the players who have faced James and experienced firsthand the exceptional quality the Englishman brings to the field.
His strength is a defining attribute, combining physicality with precise timing, while his intelligence in reading the game makes him equally dangerous in defence and attack.
Conclusion
All other defenders may perform well – until they come up against Reece James. Now fully fit for over a year and having overcome recurring injury setbacks, his return is a major boost for Chelsea as they aim to build on their Club World Cup triumph and compete for further silverware.
Part of the credit for his return to full fitness should also go to head coach Enzo Maresca, whose man-management and carefully managed minutes have played a key role in helping the best right-back in the Premier League return to full strength.
The debate over who is the superior right-back – Reece James or Jurrien Timber – is currently trending. Yet, as James has proven time and again, no one in England is close to unseating him as the best in his position.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Visionhaus
Recording Date: 30.11.2025
